Online Reporter
“What a time to be South African.”
That was the feeling shared across the country yesterday morning, after Bafana Bafana made history by qualifying for the Fifa World Cup knockout stages for the first time ever.
South Africans from all walks of life celebrated the landmark achievement, with celebrities, influencers and public figures flooding social media with messages of pride and excitement.
The historic moment came after a tense 1-0 victory over South Korea at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico. Cyprus-based winger Thapelo Maseko became the nation’s hero when he found the back of the net in the 63rd minute after a well-timed assist from Tshepang Moremi.
The win completed an impressive turnaround for coach Hugo Broos and his squad. After suffering a 2-0 defeat to group leaders Mexico in their opening match, South Africa bounced back to finish second in Group A with four points and secure a place in the Round of 32.
As the final whistle blew, social media exploded.
Media personality Nandi Madida summed up the mood, writing: “Good morning. I woke up South African and that’s a fact.”
In another post, she added: “No weapon formed against us shall prosper.”
Award-winning actress Thuso Mbedu shared her excitement, posting: “What a time to be South African.”
Bontle Modiselle wrote: “God did!!!”
DJ Karri also joined the celebrations with a playful message directed at doubters. Alongside a Nigerian flag, he wrote: “Where are they? They are quiet now. They thought we wouldn’t make it. We are Bafana Bafana.”
Portia Moemedi joked about the team’s achievement, saying, “I’m going to tell my kids that in 2026 Bafana Bafana was second in the world. (I don’t want to argue with trolls about this).”
Rapper Cassper Nyovest could barely contain his excitement.
“Oh my GAWD!!! Can you believe it??? We are through to the Round of 32!!! First time in history!!! Thank you, coach. Thank you, Maseko. Thank you, boys. The happiness!!! Kea groove this weekend!!!”
Radio and television star Anele Mdoda-Mgudlwa was already looking ahead to bigger challenges.
“Lethani uMessi. No Mbappé. Sibafhuna one by one,” she wrote.
Television presenter Maps Maponyane added: “It’s going to be a loooong day, South Africa, but it’s going to be worth every single yawn because Bafana Bafana have qualified to the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup for the first time in history!”
Even comedian Trevor Noah joined in, posting: “We made history!!!!!!”
The celebrations are far from over. Bafana Bafana now turn their attention to a Round of 32 clash against World Cup co-hosts Canada on June 28 in California.
Keep wearing your green and gold, Mzansi. The dream is not over yet. – IOL
